Podcast: 16 June 2013

This week on the science hour, Tom and Sila are joined by scientist/communicator Upulie Divisekera, to talk about the latest from the world of science.

Sila discussed the adaptations allowing marine mammals like seals and whales to hold their breath for hours while diving, as well as effective approaches to teaching the science of evolution in schools.

Tom didn’t realise that our fingertips can grow back after being amputated, but it turns out they can, and new studies have examined why! He also looked at a new method of detecting melanoma tumours through smell, and the potential of Dr Dogs.

Our guest, Upulie, shared with us her experiences as a scientist, including her career in cancer research and nanotech, and her love for science communication. If you’re interested in learning more about the day-to-day experiences of scientists in the field, her twitter channel, @realscientists is hosted by a different science professional every week, from zoologists in the amazon, to chemists in the lab, to science writers, and gives a great insight into the industry.